American Board of Opticianry (ABO) Practice Test

Which refractive error do most children tend to shift towards as they grow?

1. Defined as grams per cubic centimeter

2. Applied to the back of the lens with the ridged side out

3. Most children are born hyperopic and may develop myopia as they grow

4. A minus lens moved further away from the eye has is compensated with

The correct answer is: Most children are born hyperopic and may develop myopia as they grow

The correct option highlights that most children are born hyperopic, which means they have a tendency to be farsighted at birth. As they grow, their eyes naturally elongate, causing a shift towards myopia (nearsightedness). This is a common trend observed in children as their visual system develops. The growth of the eye causes a gradual change in refractive status, and this is particularly important for eye care professionals to understand as they deal with prescriptions for children. Recognizing this shift can help in diagnosing and managing vision correction needs effectively. In essence, as a child's eye develops, they are likely to require more myopic correction over time, which is crucial information for parents and eye care professionals alike. By having a foundational understanding of refractive errors and how they progress through childhood, practitioners can make informed decisions about the best possible interventions for their young patients.